#whole cake island spoilers

Katakuri’s side is gushing blood, his scarf is removed, baring the worst part of him to the world, and every part of him is battered and bruised.

This is arguably the worst state he’s ever been in.

But, seeing Straw Hat standing across from him, still standing despite the countless hits Katakuri’s bombarded him with, glaring fiercely at him and looking like he can go for five more rounds, willpower battering at Katakuri’s harder than any other he’s faced (other than his mama’s, of course), Katakuri’s never felt more exhilarated.

He’s been stuck at Tottoland for far too long – as the most responsible sibling and the strongest sibling, he’s tasked with staying at home and taking care of everything that his mother and family refuses to. No venturing out into the rest of the New World, no exploring the unknown – more exciting than anythingthat happens at home, no fighting or brawling or even meeting new people. Just the same old monotony, day after day after day.

There’s no other way of saying it - he’s been bored.

But, now, facing down Monkey D. Luffy, Katakuri can finally let loose – can finally be free to fight, and brawl, and be happy in his own skin. There’s no judgement from his opponent, just respect and unending determination to beat him.

It’s the best thing that’s happened to Katakuri in years.

As they launch at each other for the umpteenth time, Katakuri grins, vicious and brutal, but free above all else.

He’s having the time of his life.

He hopes this moment of pure exhilaration never ends.